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Appointment of Mr Kit Thompson as Orchard House Head from September 2021

Following the announcement earlier in the term of Maria Edwards’ retirement, it is with great pleasure that we share the exciting news of her successor.

After a highly competitive and rigorous recruitment process, Mr Kit Thompson – currently Headmaster at the Unicorn School in Kew – has been appointed as the next Headteacher of Orchard House, starting in September 2021.

In a very strong field, Mr Thompson’s passion for education, wealth of experience, and dedication to the children in his charge shone through. His strong educational ethos and commitment to the highest standards of pastoral care make him an excellent fit for Orchard House.

An experienced Headteacher, Mr Thompson enjoys an excellent reputation amongst London schools. Educated at Downside School, Somerset, Mr Thompson has held positions at Tockington Manor School, Bristol and Twyford School, Winchester, where he was Deputy Head. He was appointed Head at the Unicorn School in 2013, where he has overseen a period of tremendous success – with continued academic achievement and an environment where pupils want to do the very best for themselves and their peers. Mr Thompson is committed to educating the whole child, and creating opportunities to nurture, develop and celebrate the talents of every pupil.

Kit Thompson, Headteacher designate, Orchard House School, said:

“I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to be Head of Orchard House School, following on from the success of Maria Edwards. I hold a deep belief that children learn best when they feel safe, happy and are inspired to try their very best every day. Orchard House has a superb reputation for its academic success and renowned pastoral care. The wonderful strap line ‘where every child can learn to fly’ immediately made me smile and I know that my views on education are ideally matched to the school. I look forward to joining the community and helping the school move forward to even greater success.”

Mr Thompson joins Orchard House at an exciting time. Under Mrs Edwards’ leadership, Orchard House School has securely positioned itself as one of the leading preparatory schools in West London. With Mr Thompson’s energy and ambition for its future, we have every confidence that Orchard House will continue to thrive and be a happy and extraordinary school.